The Rashtrakutas and their Times c22.32

c22.32

The principal means of transport in our period was the bullock cart. Al Idrisi says that there was no other means of travelling in Gujarat, except chariots drawn by oxen under the control of a driver. (29) The same was probably the case in our period. Horses were fairly dear and were therefore not available for transport purposes. The bullock carts were, however, fairly comfortable; Tavernier, writing in the 17th century, says that they were more commodious than anything that has been invented for ease in France and Italy. (30) This compliment is of course paid to the conveyance of the 17th century, but when we remember how conservative the Hindu artisan is, it would appear very probable that the bullock carts of our period too were equally good.